US celebrates Nigerian leaders at Mandela Washington Fellowship event
The US Mission in Nigeria hosted a welcome reception to honour 54 emerging Nigerian leaders on June 5, 2025. These individuals completed the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship, a program that offers intensive leadership training in the United States. Rick Swart, the US Consul General, welcomed the new alumni, emphasizing their potential to drive positive change in Nigeria. Several distinguished alumni were also recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions.
What we know
- 54 Nigerians were honoured in Lagos after completing the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship on June 5, 2025.
- The Fellows were selected from over 7,400 applicants and trained at top US universities in business, civic leadership, and public management.
- Rick Swart encouraged the new alumni to use their experiences to benefit both Nigeria and the US.
- Ten alumni received special awards for leadership, innovation, and service, including Aishah Buba, Olusola Owonikoko, and Adepeju Jaiyeoba.
- Nigeria remains the largest contributor to the fellowship, with 678 participants since the program began in 2014.
